Commenting on Ofsted's Annual Report, published today, Tues 7th Dec, Paul Whiteman, general secretary of school leaders’ union NAHT, said:

"It is true that pupils fell behind during lockdown, and there is a significant challenge going forward helping children to recover.

"But several reports have shown that good progress was made when children returned to schools in the 2021 summer term. Educators know what they are doing, and it is important that schools are allowed to focus on the strategies and programmes they know work best for the children in their schools.

"In this regard, the inspectorate offers little insight of substance and would do well to get out of the way and let schools get on with the task-in-hand. Pupils will be best served by their schools not being distracted by preparation for inspection. Right now, children need their teachers focused on teaching – responding to individual needs and adapting to the ever-changing situation on-the-ground. The best thing Ofsted could do for learners is to pause inspection and let schools get on with the job."